Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has committed his future to the club, signing a new two-year deal on Thursday. The Dutch defender joins Mohamed Salah in putting an end to months of speculation about their futures, with both players extending their stays at Anfield as fans prepare for a potential Premier League title celebration.
“I’m very happy, very proud,” said Van Dijk, whose contract was set to expire at the end of the season. “There are so many emotions obviously that go through my head right now speaking about it. It’s a proud feeling, it’s a feeling of joy. It’s just incredible. The journey I’ve had so far in my career, to be able to extend it with another two years at this club is amazing and I’m so happy.”
Having made 314 appearances for Liverpool, Van Dijk had previously said he had “no idea” if he would remain at the club but hinted on Sunday that he was leaning toward staying. Despite strong links to Paris Saint-Germain, the 33-year-old centre-back reaffirmed his desire to stay with Liverpool.
“It was always Liverpool,” Van Dijk stated. “That was the case. It was always in my head, it was always the plan and it was always Liverpool. There wasn’t any doubt in my head that this is the place to be for me and my family. I’m one of Liverpool. Someone called me the other day an adopted Scouser — I’m really proud to hear these things, it gives me a great feeling.”
Since arriving from Southampton in January 2018, Van Dijk has been a key figure in Liverpool’s resurgence, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, the UEFA Super Cup, and the Club World Cup under former manager Jürgen Klopp.
With Van Dijk and Salah now secured for the future, attention turns to the status of England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract also expires at the end of the season. Alexander-Arnold has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, and his future remains uncertain.
Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, are on the verge of winning a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title. With a 13-point lead over second-placed Arsenal and just six games remaining, they could wrap up the title this weekend if the Gunners lose.
